This is a very desirable example of a Model 1898 Schwarzlose self-loading semi-automatic pistol with only about 500 manufactured. This model was designed by Andreas Schwarzlose of Prussia who was most noted for his early water cooled machine gun designs. The original design was developed in 1894 with improved designs in 1896 and this final version in 1898. They are fairly rare as only 500 were ever believed to have been produced with a large number of them being sold or confiscated in Russia and reissued by the imperialist Russian forces. The functioning of this model is what is so unique in that this final design actually employs a "rotating bolt mechanism" that is very similar in design in the current M16 rifle. The bolt is mounted on the top rear of the pistol and it has a small race-way underneath with four opposed locking lugs on the front end with the one piece having the corresponding set of four locking lugs inside the breech end of the barrel, just like the barrel extensions on the M16 rifles. As the cartridge is fired it drives the bolt rearward where the curved race-way rotates the bolt and unlocks it. Very unique for an 1896 pistol design! The barrel is fitted with a integral, high front sight and a unique rotating/adjustable rear sight that is graduated from 1-5 (100-500 meters). The right side of the barrel, upper receiver, and top of the bolt all have the early German "Double Crown/U" proofmark. It has matching serial number on the lower receiver, trigger, magazine, and bolt and striker (partial "34"). It is fitted with a set of checkered walnut grips. This pistol was ahead of it's time!

Fine with 60% of the dark period arsenal refurbished blue finish overall with wear and thinning on the sides of the upper frame and underside of the bolt from cycling the action with the grip straps showing a gray patina. The grips are in very fine condition with most of their varnish on each side with nice distinct checkering mixed with some minor handling marks and light scratches on the upper right side. Mechanically excellent. This is a very unique example of an early semi-automatic pistol that is in really nice, high condition.